COSTA’S BLOOD IS BOILING HOT
Blues reunion thrills Diego
DIEGO COSTA admits he has “hot blood” ahead of a potential full Premier League debut for Wolves at his old club Chelsea today.
Costa, who turned 34 yesterday, scored 52 goals in 89 league games for Chelsea between 2014 and 2017, winning two league titles.
However, he left under a cloud in 2017 after falling out with boss Antonio Conte. The pair had a spectacular row after Costa’s head was turned in that January by a big-money offer from the Far East.
The hitman threatened to go on strike before he rejoined Atletico Madrid that September.
The bitter exit meant he never had the opportunity to bid farewell to the Blues faithful, but Costa how has that a chance after joiningWolves as a free agent last month.
Interim Wolves head coach Steve Davis, in charge after Bruno Lage was sacked, said: “In his words, he has very hot blood. But he is a great character to have around and has lifted the group.
“He has been a breath of fresh air in terms of getting the group together. He still has some talent there and something in his legs.
“We are fearful of him, nevermind Chelsea.
“It is his birthday and with it being Chelsea, it is a big week for him.
“He will play a part at some stage in the game.
“We have missed a focal point with Raul Jimenez being injured and we are hoping he can provide that.”
Costa, who came on as a substitute at West Ham last week, will be up against Thiago Silva if he plays. Chelsea head coach Graham Potter backs his 38-year-old centre-half to tame Costa. Potter said: “Does Thiago have the experience and temperament to handle Costa? Of course. Every opponent gives you a battle. He has the respect for every opponent and for football. He knows it is tough. He knows if you take your eye off it, it can punish you. But that is where he prepares himself so well. He is a top professional.
“He’s 38 years old, 38 years young. If you want to look for someone who makes the most of his career and making sure he is performing at the highest level, he is a great example of that.”
Asked if fans will give Costa a good reception, Potter said: “I’m not sure. I’d hope so.Always when players have achieved something at a club, you hope that. But that is not for me to decide of course.”
Wolves, meanwhile, are in talks with Julen Lopetegui over their vacancy after he was sacked this week by Sevilla.